FEATURE : CLOUD SOLUTIONS
Deploying cloud solutions
As cloud strategies become increasingly vital and complex , CIOs can help organisations avoid risk and ensure a successful , cost-effective transition to the cloud . Industry experts share with Intelligent CIO Africa on how to ensure success with cloud solutions .
Cloud-based solutions refer to on-demand
services , computer networks , storage , applications or resources accessed via the Internet and through another provider ’ s shared cloud computing infrastructure . The benefits of cloud solutions to end-users and businesses include increased capacity , scalability , functionality and reduced maintenance and cost for computer infrastructure or in-house staff . Additionally , cloudbased solutions can enable companies to focus on revenue driving initiatives rather than time-consuming , non-core business tasks . According to research firm International Data Corporation ( IDC ), the wider Middle East , Turkey and Africa ( META ) region , will see public cloud spending increase to US $ 2.8 billion by the end of 2020 , a figure which will rise to US $ 6.5 billion by 2024 . IDC stated that the need for agile cloud-based platforms , secure remote access and seamless collaboration tools are all key influences over cloud spending , as businesses seek to not only aid recovery , but also steady growth .
Osama Al-Zoubi , CTO , Cisco Middle East and Africa ( MEA ), said businesses across MEA are increasingly recognising the potential of cloud to streamline processes and are investing in cloud solutions to help properly structure and store their data . “ This is something we are witnessing across both the public and private sector , as businesses of all sizes focus on cloud deployment within their personal digitisation agendas ,” he said . “ The ultimate catalyst for accelerated cloud adoption has been the
COVID-19 pandemic , which caused decisionmakers to implement more robust digital solutions in today ’ s world of remote and agile working . Companies are fast realising the benefits of cloud solutions to improve performance – and this is happening on a large scale in MEA , as businesses focus on technology-led transformation , creating smart workplaces and enhancing customer experience .”
Hamilton Ratshefola , Country General Manager , IBM Southern Africa , said hybrid cloud is swiftly becoming the dominant force driving change in the region .
Ratshefola added that with remote work now becoming a norm , the value of cloud computing has never been greater . “ And to date , we ’ ve seen many companies move to all-encompassing work from home without much interruption – thanks in large part to cloud . Dozens of business-oriented applications are now connecting homebound workers to collaborative tools that enable Business Continuity ,” he said . “ The cloudbased support of video conferencing , file-sharing services , communications platforms , chat bots and a host of data analytics , graphic design , accounting , HR and sales management programmes has allowed remote employees to continue work as if they never left their company offices . Similarly , remote developers continue writing code and building applications in cloud-supported containerised environments , while AIbacked internal and customer-facing applications keep humming along because they are built and managed in the cloud .”
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